Author Topic: a couple of newbie tandem questions  (Read 2325 times)

a couple of newbie tandem questions
« on: 01 June, 2013, 03:35:07 pm »
I have had a Circe helios tandem for about a year which is used for cycling with my 6 year old son. We have just signed up for a 47 mile ride in September which I'm confident should be ok. We managed a 30 mile ride last summer no problem so we'll slowly build up to it.

I wondered if anylne had any words of wisdom or warning to share about the ride/training?

My other query was about servicing - I have a good reliable lbs - should they be able to handle it or should I look to a specialist?

Thanks
Audax Ecosse - always going too far

Re: a couple of newbie tandem questions
« Reply #1 on: 01 June, 2013, 04:18:02 pm »
We have one too, and I did a 115km audax with my then 5yr old without problems. Circe can supply a stoker stem mounted water bottle that makes hydration easier. I put on a topeak tri bag filled with jelly beans which provided energy. It was a great - when we got home he went out on his bike!

I've never needed any work doing on it, but it's all fairly standard stuff, and Circe are very helpful for sorting what isn't.

Re: a couple of newbie tandem questions
« Reply #2 on: 01 June, 2013, 06:30:42 pm »
I also have a Circe Helios! :D Aren't they fab? 8)

I would say the most likely problem a normal lbs would have is if you have a hub geared one (we do) - some bike shops aren't used to them.
Quote from: Kim
^ This woman knows what she's talking about.

Re: a couple of newbie tandem questions
« Reply #3 on: 01 June, 2013, 07:05:09 pm »
It is definitely my favourite bike  :thumbsup:

Just have 2 cogs at the front and 8 at the back so I will give my lbs a go.

Thanks for replies, it is encouraging to know others have done a reasonable distance on them - I was just a little apprehensive about the little wheels with fat tyres.

I was thinking I would stuff my back pocket with bags of sweets so my son could help himself during the ride, but I wasn't sure if it would be too distracting for him.
Audax Ecosse - always going too far

Re: a couple of newbie tandem questions
« Reply #4 on: 01 June, 2013, 08:22:13 pm »
I don't think the stoker needs to pay too much attention. My old stoker used to spend a lot of time turned to face the 2 year old in a baby seat on the rack. They both tended to dance a lot too :D.
Quote from: Kim
^ This woman knows what she's talking about.

Kim

  • Timelord
    • Fediverse
Re: a couple of newbie tandem questions
« Reply #5 on: 02 June, 2013, 09:04:02 am »
Thanks for replies, it is encouraging to know others have done a reasonable distance on them - I was just a little apprehensive about the little wheels with fat tyres.

Little wheels with fat tyres are a well-proven technology.  The only thing they can't do well is really lumpy off-roading.

clarion

  • Tyke
Re: a couple of newbie tandem questions
« Reply #6 on: 02 June, 2013, 09:54:13 am »
The Circe is remarkably stable and surefooted for an unbraced tandem with small wheels.  Rolls along nicely, too. 

Not planning to take it off road, mind, but Butterfly has accompanied child cyclists on pavements, and through a flood.  It was an icy day when we test rode them.
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